Caraval

The Sunday Times bestseller

Welcome to Caraval, an enchanting and immersive world where nothing is quite what it seems. This captivating debut by Stephanie Garber invites readers into a realm of magic, mystery, and adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Scarlett Dragna has never left the tiny isle of Trisda, constrained by the iron grip of her abusive father. Since childhood, she has dreamt of experiencing Caraval, the legendary once-a-year performance where the audience becomes part of the show. A letter from the enigmatic showmaster Legend brings the long-awaited invitation, offering Scarlett and her beloved sister Tella a chance to escape their grim reality.

But shortly after their arrival, Tella is kidnapped by Legend himself, thrusting Scarlett into a whirlwind of peril and enchantment. Despite being told that everything in Caraval is an elaborate performance, she cannot shake the fear gripping her heart. The boundaries between reality and illusion blur as she navigates a game of love, magic, and heartbreak. Scarlett must follow the threads of cryptic clues and labyrinthine riddles, racing against time to locate Tella before the game concludes and her sister disappears forever.

Caraval is more than just a game; it's an odyssey filled with twists and turns where dreams and nightmares entwine. Every choice Scarlett makes could have dire consequences, leading her deeper into a world of secrets where even her burgeoning feelings become suspect. As the lines between performance and reality dissolve, Scarlett learns that in Caraval, trusting the wrong person could be the most dangerous decision of all.

Richly atmospheric and profoundly imaginative, Caraval is perfect for fans of magical realism and epic adventure. Stephanie Garber's beautifully woven tale takes readers on an unforgettable journey where fairy tales are brought to life, and nothing is ever as it seems. Dive into the spellbinding world of Caraval—just remember: it's only a game... or is it?